Exploring Catholic Social Teaching Principles

Oct 12, 2024

Lecture Notes: Catholic Social Teaching and Moral Theology

Introduction

  • Speaker: Father Thomas Massaro, Professor of Moral Theology at Fordham University
  • Hosted by Glastonbury Abbey Institute, Fall 2023
  • Father Massaro's background and connection to Massachusetts
  • Overview of lecture series: Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching

Structure of the Lecture

  • Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching
  • Discussion of foundational points and six themes
  • Q&A session to follow

Key Concepts Discussed

Catholic Social Teaching Overview

  • Definition: Tradition of church teachings aimed at social justice, rooted in the Gospels and teachings of the Church.
  • Historical Context: Developed significantly since 1891 (Pope Leo XIII's Rerum Novarum).
  • Purpose: To propose ways of achieving justice, not to impose.
  • Methodology: See, Judge, Act spiral - observing issues, making judgments, and taking action.

Foundational Principles

  • Scripture: Teachings of Jesus, parables focused on justice and charity.
  • Tradition: Continuous revelation through church history and teachings of church figures.
  • Reason: Use of logic and ethical frameworks (e.g., Just War Theory).
  • Experience: Learning from real-world applications and social sciences.

Six Foundational Themes

1. Dignity of Every Human Person and Human Rights

  • Human Dignity: All humans are created in the image of God, deserving respect.
  • Human Rights: Grounded in the dignity given by God, includes right to life and liberty.
  • Controversies: Discussions on abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment.

2. Solidarity, Common Good, and Participation

  • Solidarity: Unity and support for all humans, especially marginalized and impoverished.
  • Common Good: Conditions that benefit all members of society (e.g., education, defense).
  • Participation: Right to be involved in economic and political life.

3. Family Life

  • Importance: Described as the "first cell" of society and "domestic church."
  • Support: Need for family-friendly policies (childcare, education, parental leave).

4. Subsidiarity and Proper Role of Government

  • Subsidiarity: Issues handled at the most local level possible.
  • Balance: Cooperation between different levels (local, regional, national) of government and civil society.

5. Property Ownership in Modern Society

  • Rights and Responsibilities: Ownership entails using property responsibly and sharing wealth.
  • Universal Destination: Material goods are meant for all, not just a select few.

6. Dignity of Work, Rights of Workers, and Support for Labor Unions

  • Worker's Rights: Safe working conditions, fair wages, and participation.
  • Labor Unions: Supported by the Church as means for justice.
  • Spirituality of Work: Concept of finding spiritual meaning in labor.

Q&A Session

  • Addressed questions regarding Catholic social teaching's views on wealth, justice, labor unions, artificial intelligence, and more.

Closing Remarks

  • Father Massaro's forthcoming books and continuation of the lecture series.

These notes capture the essence of Father Thomas Massaro's lecture on Catholic Social Teaching, discussing the historical context, foundational principles, and six key themes, concluding with a Q&A session addressing diverse related topics.